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Should I Apply for an EB-2 / NIW Visa?

Should I Apply for an EB-2 / NIW Visa?

The EB-2 (Employment-Based Second Preference) visa with a National Interest Waiver (NIW) is an appealing option for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs aiming to move to the United States. However, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of this visa category is essential before making a decision.

Advantages of the EB-2 / NIW Visa

  1. No Labor Certification Required: One significant benefit of the NIW is the waiver of the labor certification requirement, a typically lengthy and complex process. This means you don't need a job offer from a U.S. employer and can self-petition.

  2. Expedited Process: The NIW can potentially expedite the immigration process by bypassing the labor certification step, which is advantageous for individuals whose work is deemed of national importance.

  3. Flexibility in Employment: With an EB-2/NIW, you have greater employment flexibility. Unlike other visa categories, you're not tied to a specific employer, allowing you to change jobs or start your own business.

  4. Path to Permanent Residency: The EB-2/NIW visa is a direct path to obtaining a Green Card. Once approved, you and your immediate family members can become permanent residents of the United States.

  5. National Importance: If your work significantly impacts the U.S. in areas like healthcare, education, or economic development, you may have a strong case for an NIW.

Disadvantages of the EB-2 / NIW Visa

  1. High Standards: The EB-2/NIW has stringent requirements. You must demonstrate your work's substantial merit and national importance, justifying the waiver of job offer and labor certification requirements.

  2. Complex Documentation: The application process requires comprehensive documentation, including documents such as a detailed business plan, personal plan, and/or impact analysis report. Preparing these documents can be time-consuming and complex.

  3. Uncertain Processing Time: Although bypassing the labor certification step can expedite the process, actual processing times can vary. Delays can occur, especially if additional evidence or documentation is requested.

  4. Risk of Denial: Your petition could be denied if the evidence doesn't convincingly demonstrate that your work meets the national interest criteria. This can result in wasted time and resources.

How We Can Help

At Visa Business Plans, we specialize in crafting comprehensive and compelling business plans, personal plans, impact analysis reports, and other customized deliverables to support your EB-2/NIW visa petition. Our team has helped hundreds of attorneys and their clients achieve visa approvals by providing:

  • Thorough and Realistic Business Plans: We ensure that your EB-2/NIW business plan is detailed, realistic, and tailored to meet the specific requirements of the EB-2/NIW visa.

  • Personal Plans: We help articulate your career achievements, future goals, and how your work benefits the U.S., making a strong case for national interest.

  • Impact Analysis Reports: Our reports quantify the potential impact of your work on the U.S. economy, healthcare, education, or other critical areas.

  • Customized Deliverables-Tailored Expertise for Immigration Attorneys: Our in-house team of experienced financial analysts and skilled writers excels at crafting custom-made deliverables. These bespoke documents are meticulously tailored to meet the unique requirements of each immigration case, ensuring that every aspect of the client’s needs and the attorney’s specifications are addressed with precision and expertise.

If you are considering applying for an EB-2/NIW visa, contact us today. With our expertise and proven track record, we can help you overcome any business-related challenge raised by the immigration authorities and enhance your chances of securing your visa approval.

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The information provided in this blog is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, it should not be considered legal advice. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and individual circumstances can vary widely. For personalized guidance and legal advice regarding your specific immigration situation, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney who can provide you with tailored assistance and ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.


Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.

Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.

At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.


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